Mono- and diglycerides: what they are and where they’re used

What are mono- and diglycerides?

E471 keeps fat and water mixed in bread, ice cream, margarine and sauces. It is made from glycerol joined to fatty acids, and those fatty acids can come from plant oils or from animal fat. The label almost never says which, and in the UK and the EU it does not have to. The related codes E472e (DATEM), E475, E481 and E570 carry the same open question.

Where are mono- and diglycerides found?

Bread, buns and cakes use it to stay soft.
Ice cream and whipped toppings use it for a smooth texture.
Margarine and spreads use it to keep oil and water mixed.
Instant noodles and powdered drinks often list it.

Label code: E471 · INS 471

E-number pageE471 · Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids

What are the other names for mono- and diglycerides on a label?

On a label, mono- and diglycerides can also appear as “E471”, “Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids”, “Emulsifier 471”, “INS 471” or “Glycerol monostearate”.

E471Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acidsEmulsifier 471INS 471Glycerol monostearateGMS

Which diets and allergies do mono- and diglycerides fit?

For mono- and diglycerides: vegan and vegetarian profiles get Heads up; dairy-free, gluten-free, peanut-allergy, sesame-allergy, egg-allergy, soy-allergy and caffeine-free profiles get Fits you.

VeganHeads upThe fatty acids can come from plant oils or from animal fat, and the pack does not have to say which.

VegetarianHeads upThe fatty acids can come from plant oils or from animal fat, and the pack does not have to say which.

A packed product can still carry a “may contain” warning, so check the pack.

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How does Bravoora check for mono- and diglycerides?

Bravoora shows E471 with both possible sources and marks it unclear, rather than guessing plant or animal.

How Bravoora decides, in full

Sources and how to cite this guide

To cite this guide: Bravoora, “Mono- and diglycerides (E471): what they are and where they’re used”, bravoora.app/ingredients/e471/, updated 22 September 2026.

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General information, not medical advice. Rules differ by country and products change, so always check the pack.